2 Fitness Truths Your Parents Should Have Tought You

Chew with your mouth closed.

Don’t talk to strangers.

Say “excuse me” if you belch.

Don’t run around the pool.

Don’t cross your eyes (they’ll stick that way).

These are all things parents teach you as a kid.

Useful stuff, but boy, wouldn’t it be even better if we were taught the very basics of health and fitness?

Not the shiny-object fad stuff… I’m talking about the research-backed stuff that has stood the test of time.

Here are 2 things every kid (and you) should know.

1: Energy Balance is the thing that makes you gain or lose fat

Belly fat, thigh fat, arm fat… It’s all a collection of the calories you ate that your body didn’t need.

Too many calories in = fat gain (in case your body needs those calories later)

Not enough calories in = fat loss (your body burns your existing fat for energy)

Understanding this one scientific fact alone frees you from needing to chase unsustainable fad diets.

All you have to do to lose fat (and keep it off) is make small changes to your everyday diet that result in a sustainable reduction in calories. We can help you with this part.

2: Resistance training (aka Strength Training with weights) changes your physique, and Cardio strengthens your heart

There are a ton of health benefits of Strength Training that don’t have to do with looking better nekkid.

Things like improved insulin sensitivity, better metabolic health, more energy, and less joint pain.

But, if one of your goals for 2026 is to tone up, get stronger, and see some muscle definition… Your plan to do so should focus mostly on lifting weights.

Cardiovascular training (cardio), on the other hand, builds the strength and endurance of your heart. Remember, it’s a muscle.

Pretty important since the number 1 cause of death in the U.S. is cardiovascular disease.

Cardio does other things, like improve how well you use oxygen, not to mention the vast mental health benefits that come along for the ride.

We include cardio in our own training, and in our clients’ workouts, but don’t get it twisted…

Running, rowing, riding, and cardio-biased group classes are for your heart, not for your physique.

I’m curious, did you already know both of these?

Do you have a friend who needs a reality check? Fwd this article to them!

Want Blakley and me to personally help you reach your health and fitness goals in 2026? Hit the button below, and let’s talk.

Have a great day!

Jonathan